How far off is normal?

Ovens cycle above and below the set temperature. An average within about 10 to 15 degrees is normal.

Does self-clean affect temperature?

It can damage the sensor or control over time.

Oven Temperature Uneven

Uneven baking usually comes down to the temperature sensor, a weak element or igniter, a convection fan that stopped, or a door seal letting heat out.

Common causes

Temperature sensor. Reads low or high, so the oven overshoots.
Weak bake element or igniter. Heats slowly and unevenly.
Convection fan. Stopped turning, so there’s no air movement.
Door gasket. Torn, so heat escapes.
Calibration. Many ovens let you set an offset from the control panel.

Checks you can do safely

Turn off power (and water or gas where it applies) before you reach inside any appliance.

Use an oven thermometer in the center and check after 20 minutes.
Look at the door gasket for gaps.
Check your manual for the temperature offset setting.
Don’t block vents with foil on the bottom.

When to call us

Call if it’s off by a lot, drifts from one bake to the next, or the convection fan doesn’t turn. We work Monday to Friday, 8 to 5, across Dallas, Tarrant, Collin, Denton, Rockwall, Ellis and Johnson counties. The service call is $150 and we waive it if you go ahead with the repair. Parts and labor are covered for 90 days.

Service page: oven repair.